The Voice of North Grenville
The Voice of North Grenville Reaching by direct mail 8,900 homes and businesses in North Grenville www.ngtimes.ca
August 20, 2026
Vol. 14 No. 32
Kayaking for Cancer: $1 Million fundraising milestone surpassed! SUPER SPRAY
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August 20 2026
Kayaking for Cancer (K4C), a dedicated group of family and friends, is proud to announce, as of 11:30 p.m. Tuesday, August 9, 2026, they have surpassed $1 Million in donations to the Canadian Cancer Society with 100% of the donations going directly to cancer research and support services. And
against cancer. The event has become a symbol of hope and resilience, with paddlers joining for various reasons, whether to remember loved ones, support those currently battling cancer, or celebrate survivors. K4C's success is attributed to the unwavering support of sponsors, volunteers, and participants. Sponsors have provided essential resources such as meals, transportation, and equipment, allowing 100% of participant fees and donations to be directed to the Canadian Cancer Society. The event's longevity and impact are a testament to the strength and unity of the K4C family. The organization invites everyone to join the cause - together, we can continue to make a difference in the battle against
they are not done yet! The journey began in 2001 when Kevin Dionne and his family decided to kayak from Kingston to Ottawa to honor their mother and father-in-law, both of whom were battling cancer. What started as a small family event quickly grew into a significant fundraising effort, attracting participants from all walks of life who share a common goal: to make a difference in the fight
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cancer. Event Details: Kayaking for Cancer is back! The event will take place from August 8-15, 2026, where participants will paddle the historic Rideau Canal from Kingston to Ottawa. Here’s how you can help: • Follow kayakingforcancer on Facebook and/ or Instagram • Make an online taxdeductible donation to our team through the Canadian Cancer Society at https:// fundraisemyway.cancer.ca/ teams/K4C2026 • Or through our website at www.kayakingforcancer.com, and click on the DONATE button For more information, please contact David Martyn at 613-834-7689 or cbsaguy@yahoo.ca.
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BMCA celebrates 50 years! submitted by Tom Graham A Community Fun Day is planned for Saturday, August 22 to celebrate the Bishop’s Mills Community Association’s 50th Anniversary (1976 – 2026)! The Fun Day will be at the Park in Bishop’s Mills. The event runs from 2pm ‘til 6pm and all are welcome. Events include games for kids, including bean bag toss, bocce, washer toss, disc golf and more! There will be a friendly parents-and-kids ball game for pure fun. There will be an historical display, as well as specimens from the collections of local natural history group Fragile Inheritance, featuring Walrus and Moose skulls, pickled Sea Cucumbers, local Prickly Cucumbers, Buckthorn-munching Grove Snails, and more. Historical information about the Village, the BMCA and the BMWI will also be on display. At 4pm André Courtemanche will entertain with his guitar music. Around 4:30, a commemorative tree dedication will take place in the park to acknowledge the contributions of several community members. The Girl Guides will be providing a Canteen and BBQ at the event. A special 50th Anniversary Cake will be provided by the Bishop’s Mills Women’s Institute. Bring a lawn chair. See you Saturday, August 22 at the Park, 29 Mill Street, Bishop’s Mills. All welcome. (In the event of rain, we will all squeeze into the Community Hall, 38 Main Street.) Visit www. BishopsMills.ca for link to Facebook page.
Fire a historic cannon at Fort Wellington National Historic Site
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Doug Scott wanted to share this cute pose of his Granddaughter reading the Times.
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Dr. Neel Chadha with Councilor John Barcley, taking time out to discuss Community Newspapers
Wind down with the sun at Baxter’s free sunset yoga event
Looking for a weekend activity that's a little out of the ordinary? At Fort Wellington National Historic Site in Prescott, visitors can do more than tour a historic fort, they can become part of the story. Through the “Enlist in the Royal Artillery” program, participants dress up as a Royal Artilleryman and fire the fort's historic muzzle-loading cannon under the supervision of Parks Canada staff. Offered on Saturday afternoons throughout the season, the program gives participants an opportunity to experience the sights and sounds of 19th-century military life while learning about the role artillery played in defending the St. Lawrence River. Visitors looking to dive deeper into the site's history can also pre-book a guided tour. These personalized tours explore the fort's remarkable preservation, military architecture, and strategic importance during the War of 1812 and the years that followed. Along the way, visitors hear stories of the British soldiers, officers, and their families who lived within the fort's walls, discover how the site evolved to meet changing military needs, and gain insight into the daily routines, challenges, and responsibilities of the garrison that once protected this important waterway. For guided tour bookings, program dates, fees, and reservation details, visit the Fort Wellington National Historic Site website. August 20, 2026
Stretch, breathe and connect with nature during a free sunset yoga event at Baxter Conservation Area this fall. Gathering at the picnic shelter at 6 p.m. on Saturday, September 12, yogis of all levels, ages and abilities can reset as the sun sets over the Rideau River. The session will be led by Iron North Fitness owner Jenna Ladd and Manotickarea yoga instructor Lesley Peace. “There’s nothing better than watching the sunset, except maybe practicing yoga as you do it,” said RVCA event organizer Emma Jackson. “This is your chance to slow down, be present and move your body in a beautiful setting.” The yoga session is part of a series of free public events to complement RVCA’s 60th Anniversary Outdoor Adventure Challenge. The self-guided challenge encourages participants to visit all 11 conservation areas by the end of 2026. Adventurers can also send away for a set of free water
bottle stickers featuring each of the sites. Participation is free, but registration through EventBrite is required, as space is limited. Participants should bring their own mat or towel. Light refreshments will be provided. Parking is free for participants. Contact Emma Jackson at emma.jackson@rvca.ca for more details.
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Blues with Jesse Greene
Maybe I’m not ready to retire just yet
by Marguerite Boyer I have to say, I have an interesting job. Working for the North Grenville Times has opened so many doors for me. I get to meet so many wonderful people, volunteers, business owners, community leaders and residents and hear the stories behind the things that make our community special. I often think about retiring (sometimes weekly), but then I remind myself that there really isn’t anyone waiting in the wings to take over a community newspaper. Sadly, many papers like ours have closed their doors over the past year. That makes what we do here even more important. This past weekend, I was asked to cover the grand opening of Kemp-
August 20 2026
tville Lifestyles. Now, I realize that what I am about to say may sound like an advertisement, but honestly, it isn't. I don’t think I have ever been to a grand opening that impressed me quite so much. What struck me most were the people behind the development. The owners of this seniors community are approachable, genuine, and clearly invested in the well being of their residents. They aren't simply building a place for people to live; they seem genuinely committed to creating a community where people feel cared for and valued. I had the opportunity to chat with several residents, and they were remarkably positive about their decision to move to Kemptville Lifestyles. They spoke about how happy they were with
their choice and how they couldn't imagine having found a better place to call home. I also met owner Dr. Neel Chadha and his lovely family, including his mother and father. They were warm, welcoming, and incredibly approachable, the kind of people who make you feel comfortable almost immediately. I was given a tour by one of their realtors, Sylvia Hogeveen, who had nothing but praise for the owners. She spoke about how easy they are to work with and, more importantly, how genuinely caring they are when it comes to the needs of their residents. Councillor John Barclay also congratulated the owners, recognizing them for following through on their vision, their persistence and the strong partnership they have built with the Municipality of North Grenville. As I left, I found myself thinking once again about that question of retirement. Maybe there is still a little more work to do. After all, one of the best parts of this job is being able to walk through the doors of a new busi-
ness or community, meet the people behind it, and discover stories that are worth sharing with our readers. And, sometimes, you leave a grand opening reminded of just how fortunate we are to have people willing to invest not only in a building, but in the community around it.
by Lisa Poushinsky The Kemptville Street Piano ends the season with Canada's "one of a kind" blues woman Jesse Greene, who is coming to rock the place with her no-nonsense blues mix of originals and creative covers. You could easily assume that she grew up near Memphis, or maybe as far away as Texas, for when she plays it sounds like she is channeling old Eddy "Cleanhead Vinson." Singing with the "smoky timbre of Bonnie Raitt" and "the wonderful raspiness of Janis Joplin," the Jesse Greene Band won the Ottawa Road to Memphis competition and were finalists at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis. Based now in Toronto, where she took the city by storm and was awarded the 2024 Amy Louie Grossmans music scholarship for artist development, Jesse is ready to show us her sweeter side in a solo set with original tunes, still featuring her monster guitar chops. "From Blues and Rock n' Roll to cosmic Soul from beyond... Jesse Greene and her band make my big toe shoot right out of my boot. These
guys rock, period." - Tony D, Canadian Blues Ace and founding member of the acclaimed Ottawa based band "Monkeyjunk". What? The Kemptville Street Piano Concert Series presents Who? Jesse Greene When? Saturday August 22, 1pm, rain or shine Where? North Grenville Public Library terrace (indoors in case of inclement weather) How much? Free! Want to support the music? The Kemptville Street Piano is a non-profit concert series that relies on grants, and we will gladly accept donations and discuss sponsorship opportunities (contact us at kemptville.street.piano@ gmail.com). Learn more about Jesse at http://www.thejessegreeneband.com/ The Kemptville Street Piano Concert Series is presented by Lisa Poushinsky and the Municipality of North Grenville. Contact kemptville.street.piano@gmail. com. @ExploreNorthGrenville #LoveNG #RediscoverOntario #Kemptville #NorthGrenville @oldtownkemptville
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Editorial
School days by David Shanahan “Up in the mornin' and out to school.” Yes, it’s almost upon us again, the traditional New Year’s Day for many parents. Back to school displays in stores, trying to figure out new clothes, books, morning schedules to get everyone out to school and work without major disasters, temper tantrums (not just by the kids), and wondering when the next PA day is. Vivid memories continue to haunt my dreams as I remember trying to button coats in the cold morning while keeping one eye out for the school bus. The times I went running down the street, dragging reluctant small bodies to catch the bus before it decided they had abandoned their education for the day.
It has been many, many years since I ‘enjoyed’ those experiences with my own offsprings, but they have left an indelible mark on my soul. Of course, things have changed a great deal, even since then. But I remember the days when lunches were not as complex an item as they later became. Peanut butter! The reliable old stand-by when you couldn’t think of any thing else, or there was nothing else in the fridge, thanks to a failure to communicate regarding who was supposed to do the necessary shopping. Then there were juice boxes, Goldfish crackers, strange plastic-like strips of coloured stuff that were claimed by the makers to contain a good quantity of real juice. Something I always doubted, but kids loved. Cheese sticks and many other more question-
desperate parents had come up with to feed their children at lunchtime. On the one hand, some of what was in the bags was horrendous. But on a few occasions, they gave one a brand new idea for what could be put into the bag the next day. And as for PA days, or PD days, I could never understand the difference between them; they only meant children at home for the day. This was yet another source of angst and stress. Would anyone be home for that day to keep watch over the junior vandals, or was there some brave person willing to ‘mind’ them while you were at work? That was bad enough, but what about those snow days? Never knowing when they might arrive to throw everything into chaos and panic mode. I shudder even now at the memory of some of those times. Things have changed since my own were at school, and I hope parents are not as pushed to figure out school lunches these days, though I suspect that they are. And, as children age and become more independent and capable of taking care of themselves (in theory, at least), their demands on early-morning parents relax a little. Now you’re just hoping the offspring go to school in the first place, or skip classes to hang, as they say. Schools have cafeterias, I’m told; an unheard of luxury in my day, I can tell you, my day being many decades ago and in another culture entirely. Away back in ancient history, when I was less than ten years old perhaps, there was a program in my
able lunch menu items that were quick, convenient, easy to pack, and wouldn’t necessarily go bad before lunchtime. Now, peanuts, and other chemically-produced foods are no longer available to parents pressured by the daily necessity of providing something, anything, for the children to eat at lunch. That is, if they actually ate anything in the first place. I distinctly remember the state of some school bags that returned from school with squashed fruit, smelly cheese, or spilt juice boxes. Another aspect that left marks on my soul. On numerous other occasions, what was left in the school bag was not what the student had been sent out with that morning. Lunch items were being swopped regularly, as the kids experimented with what other
Letters to the Editor Dear Editor, I am writing in response to the submission by Fred Schueler, “Declaration of a planetary emergency”. In my mind, the human factors that have led us to environmental challenges are our inability and unwillingness to curtail our consumption and not being content with what we have. The notice from Fred Schueler speaks of human systems that are not aligned with the earth’s capacity to give. I accept this, but would add that this applies at the individual, local (municipal) and national level as well. Right here in North Grenville, several examples of our unconstrained desire to draw more and more from the natural system come to mind. We have large residential and commercial developments where once there were forests. There is a strong campaign to build a sports dome on agricultural land. The pressure to develop the Ferguson Forest property adjacent to Highway 43 is another example of ‘can’t get enough’, providing more venues for consumption. For the residents of Oxford Station, there is the sand extraction pit, another example of ‘bar no holds’ extraction. It all seems obsessive. We are not meant to live in a world where all life must August 20, 2026
struggle to survive, with many species not making the cut. Each of us can take responsibility for lessening the burden we place on the earth. We can incorporate “Reduce and Reuse” into our daily lifestyle. What might that look like? Grow a garden, plant trees, use and cherish green spaces, make travel and tourism a local affair and let your political leaders know that these matters are important to you. Just as many Canadians have responded viscerally to the politics and posturing of our neighbours to the south, we also need to act individually and as a society to change our ways. When we do so, we will ensure that our children and grandchildren will have the same opportunities to pursue security and happiness as we have had. Marc Nadeau Lower Oxford Mills
Dear Editor, I just heard a news clip about Pierre Poilievre complaining about Carney not doing a good job of keeping foreign influence out of our country, and yet, back at the occupation of Wellington Street in Ottawa, he was out supporting and befriending the “Proud Boys” and “The Oath Keepers”, some of Donald Trump’s very best friends, who were the main groups involved, by Trump’s invitation on the Capital Hill, January 6 event where people were murdered, policemen and women trying to proyecy the public and keep the peace. Also, they were out to kill members of the U.S. government, such as Nancy Pelosi (the House Speakers), and threatening to hang Mike Pence, among many others. Coffee and Tim-bits anyone? Kath Piché P.S. I forgot the high fives!
elementary school which provided free lunches for the poor kids, like me. At the set time every day, the teachers would call out loudly, “Right. The free lunch children may leave the room now”. And off the few of us would go, under the watchful, somewhat pitying eyes of old friends, to get our half-pint bottle of milk (usually warm) and a think sandwich. Most days, it would just be bread and jam, or bread and cheese. About one sandwich I was never entirely sure what was, in fact, between the thin slices of white bread. But on one day, oh joy, oh bliss, it would be a currant bun with our milk. Possibly the closest the free lunch ever came to providing fruit! Parents will often say, possibly years after the event, that it all made me what I am. Hmmm. So, that’s what happened, is it? To be perfectly honest, I hated school. From the day I first entered the institution to the day I left High School. But something must have worked there, and with an M.A. and a PhD I find myself wondering how that all happened. My old teachers would be shocked and possibly horrified. “What, him?!”. I suppose, for some of us, schools were a necessary evil. Just my opinion, of course. Ah yes, school days: the happiest days of your life. That’s about as true as the other saying used so often by parents: “sticks and stones may break your bones, but names will never hurt you”! Now, I prefer this other wise saying: “Hail, hail rock 'n' roll. Deliver me from the days of old.”
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Op-ed
Canada can stop the bad bots blitz from NewsMedia Canada Humans are now outnumbered on the internet. According to researchers, bots account for more than half of all internet traffic. The consequences of this development are starting to show. A bad bot, or a stealth bot as it is also called, is a crawler that intentionally conceals or falsifies its identity or purpose, circumvents access controls or rights reservations, or impersonates human traffic. A new bipartisan proposal in the United States - the Stealth Bot Prohibition Act - starts from a simple principle: automated crawlers should say who they are and why they are visiting websites. It is an idea WAN-IFRA, the World Association of News Publishers unreservedly endorses and that lawmakers around the world should embrace. For news publishers, the consequences of today’s bot invasion are increasingly serious. Malevolent actors use bad bots to steal news content, also behind paywalls, to then put it on what media analysts have called a billion-dollar reseller market, one where AI developers buy from the owners of the bots, not the journalists and publishers. They then use the stolen journalism to create substitutive products that directly compete with the publishers' websites. In the words of A.G. Sulzberger, “This theft isn’t just happening because publishers are leaving their toys out on the lawn; it’s happening when they are locked up safely
in the house.” Uninvited bad bots can hit pages millions of times in a single day, slowing down websites for human readers and potentially leading to extra bandwidth charges or even total outages. In August 2025, one UK technology site was taken offline after being scraped 1.6 million times in a single day. The problem has only escalated since: The Wikimedia Foundation, which hosts Wikipedia, now blocks or throttles roughly a quarter of all automated requests hitting its infrastructure, amounting to billions of requests a day from crawlers that ignore its access policies. This new flood of traffic is changing the makeup of the internet itself, and in the process, creating a significant financial burden for newsrooms both large and small. Publishers have tried to stop these bots on their own by deploying sophisticated blockers, but it’s almost impossible to stop them when malicious bots are able to disguise themselves and act with impunity. Local news providers, already operating at razor-thin margins, can’t afford the higher technical costs. The US Stealth Bot Prohibition Act is deliberately straightforward. It would require AI bad bots to disclose their identity and purpose, giving news publishers and other content providers the information they need to protect their work from actors that currently often disguise themselves as humans. The proposal has received
www.northgrenville.ca What’s going on? See our events calendar: www.northgrenville.ca/events Stay informed! Council Meetings: www.northgrenville.ca/meetings Need to see us? Municipal office hours: Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 285 County Road 44, Kemptville Need to reach us? Contact us: Call 613-258-9569 or email: general@northgrenville.on.ca Need additional information? Visit us:
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August 20 2026
broad support from news publishers. News Corp Chief Executive Robert Thomson has described stealth bots as “the silent scavengers of the internet”, while Condé Nast CEO Roger Lynch has warned that disguised bots scrape original journalism “with zero accountability.” Transparency is also the essential first step towards a functioning licensing market. Publishers cannot negotiate with companies they cannot identify or protect content when they cannot see who is taking it. The EU's Copyright in the Digital Single Market Directive gives rightsholders the legal right to reserve "in a machine-readable way" their content from text and data mining, and since 2 August 2026 AI developers can face fines of up to €15 million or 3% of global turnover for ignoring those reservations. But that right is hollow if the machines knocking on the door are allowed to lie about who they are. An opt-out only works if the crawler reading it identifies itself honestly in the first place, and enforcement is only as strong as the ability to tell truthful crawlers from dishonest ones. The consequences of the bad bot invasion are real. Publishers bear the cost of producing original reporting and maintaining the digital infrastructure from which it is distributed. Yet bad actors can extract that work, sell access to it and help create AI products that compete directly with the original sources. The strip-mining of journalism must end not by pitting publishers against AI companies, but by fixing a market that currently cannot function at all. Transparency about who is crawling, and enforceable consequences when they lie about it, are the precondition for any functioning digital marketplace, whether that market rewards publishers, AI developers, or the readers both ultimately serve. Canada, which has been a leader in smart media policy, should introduce bad bot legislation as a first step toward building a fair AI licensing market.
Municipality matters by David Shanahan
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The effective end of this municipal council’s mandate comes in the next weeks, and, with a need to sign off on a number of issues, an extra council meeting was held virtually on Tuesday, August 13. Two major items were dealt with at the meeting: approval of a Memorandum of Understanding [MOU] between the Municipality and the Kemptville Campus Education and Community Centre Board. This was the result of many weeks of negotiations between the Campus Board and municipal staff, and sets out the parameters for the relationship between Campus and Municipality for the next years. The character of the Campus has changed significantly since the property was first bought by North Grenville from the Agricultural Research Institute of Ontario (ARIO) in 2018, leading to some confusion over the role of both parties in what was designed to be an armslength supervision by Council over the activities of the Board. Changes in the makeup of the Board, as well as in the staff administering the property on a daily basis, meant that a new MOU was needed to clarify the relations and the vision for the future of the Campus. The Campus includes 600 acres and 15 main buildings, as well as woodlands, cropland,
wetland, greenspace, greenhouses, agroforestry centre, maple bush, trails, sports facilities and other buildings. The operation and maintenance of the renewed Kemptville Campus is through a wholly-owned not-forprofit corporation, which operates at arm’s length from the Municipality. Aside from schools, the Campus has around forty paying tenants, ranging from sports teams to mental health and heritage groups. A second issue addressed at the Council meeting was the future of the North Grenville Historical Society [NGHS], another of the Kemptville Campus tenants. As with most voluntary organisations, the NGHS has had to adapt to fluctuations in membership, board members, and circumstances. For the past five years, the Society has occupied premises on Prescott Street in Kemptville, The History Hub, which was their shop-front window to the community, as well as spaces on the Campus where they stored the extensive archive of material recording the history of the community since 1791. The decision has been made to leave the History Hub location and focus on the Campus site, both of which have been subsidised by the Municipality since the NGHS had to move out of their previous location in old Kemptville Town Hall to make room for
residential accommodation. Under the new MOU with the Society, Council have agreed to continue funding the Campus site, and to provide extra funds to allow the Society to hire a part-time staffer to oversee and organise the Archives. It was also agreed by Council to increase the annual contribution to the North Grenville Historical Society by $10,000, funded from general working reserves, to make the total contribution $50,000. In a resolution regarding the further development of Bell Hall on the Campus into residential units, Council awarded the tender for flooring for Bell Hall to Westboro Flooring in the amount of $992,863.97. Council’s meeting on Thursday, August 18 dealt with a number of issues which had to be considered before Council entered its “lame duck” period leading up to the Municipal Election in October. That meeting will be covered in next week’s Times.
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HARVEST CONCERT for House of Lazarus
Affordable family adventures start with local Home Grown ideas
Family vacations don't have to mean expensive flights or crowded airports. Some of Ontario's best summer memories can be found just down the road: around a campfire, at the cottage, wandering a farmers' market or discovering the farms and food that help feed the province. The Ontario Federation of Agriculture's Home Grown campaign is encouraging families to make the most of the final weeks of summer by combining affordable local adventures with Ontario-grown food. "Whether you're camping for the weekend, heading to the cottage or simply taking a day trip, Ontario offers incredible opportunities to enjoy great food while discovering the people and places that produce it," says Larry Davis, farmer and director with the Ontario Federation of Agriculture. "Shopping at farm stands, farmers' markets or directly from farmers gives families fresh, seasonal food while supporting local farms and rural communities." Late summer is one of
the best times of year to eat locally. Grocery stores, roadside stands and farmers' markets are overflowing with Ontario-grown fruits and vegetables including sweet corn, tomatoes, peaches, blueberries, green beans, cucumbers, peppers and potatoes. Add locally raised meat, cheese, eggs or fresh fish and families can create simple, affordable meals with ingredients grown close to home. For campers, that could mean grilled Ontario sweet corn alongside locally made sausages. At the cottage, fresh tomatoes, cucumbers and cheese make an easy lunch, while peaches or blueberries become an effortless dessert around the campfire. Even a roadside picnic can become a memorable meal when it's filled with food grown just a few kilometres away. "One of the best parts of eating local is that it connects people with the places they're visiting," Davis says. "Many Ontario farms welcome visitors through pick-your-own experiences, corn mazes, farm markets,
educational tours and seasonal events. It's a chance for Ontarians to see where food comes from while creating lasting family memories." Across Ontario, visitors can discover attractions that celebrate agriculture and food, from bustling farmers' markets and agricultural museums to educational destinations like the Children's Museum in London, where exhibits often explore food, farming and the natural world. Families can also visit local fairs, conservation areas with working farms, orchards and other agritourism destinations that showcase Ontario's rich agricultural heritage. Find your local agritourism or farmers’ market adventure using these handy websites: https://agritourismontario.com or https:// farmersmarketsontario.com. Summer food adventure facts: Ontario's fruit and vegetable harvest changes almost every week through the summer, meaning no two farmers' market visits are exactly alike. • Many pick-your-own
farms also offer playgrounds, wagon rides, animal encounters or picnic areas, making them fun family day trips. • Corn mazes begin opening across Ontario in late summer, with many farms creating new designs every year. • Fall fair season begins in mid-August, with more than 210 agricultural fairs taking place across Ontario each year, offering everything from livestock shows and giant vegetables to home baking, midway rides and local food. • Farm stands are among the few places where you can often meet the people who actually grew your food. The OFA’s Home Grown campaign raises awareness of why it’s important to preserve Ontario farmland to produce local food, fuel, flowers and fibre. Learn more and sign up for regular updates on products grown and raised in Ontario at homegrownofa.ca.
County Road 43
– an Evening of Live Music
OnྭSaturday, September 5, step into a world of musical delight. A Bunch of People Arts & Events presents its annual Harvest Concert featuring five (5) local music groups who will warm yourྭsoul, take you down memory lane, and get you a “toetapping"!ྭThe concert starts at 7 pmྭat the Winchester United Church.ྭ This annual concert is toྭbenefitྭHouse of Lazarus and features the following musical performers: Tonality:ྭSuzanne & Steveྭ(Suzanne; member of Diamond's Edge Band) andྭ(Steve; member of Encore)ྭare always fun to have on stage andྭtheir engagingྭpersonalities always come through as they deliver covers likes of Simon & Garfunkel, Fleetwood Mac... Mill Street Duo:ྭSandra & Rick (McNeill joined Ventrella in the release in 2021 of Rick's original music on his album,ྭChapter 6, which you can hear onྭSpotify).ྭMill Street Duo, withྭtheir original style, is a combination of folk/blues with thoughtful lyrics that challenge the long-held status quo.
KEMPTVILLE
PROGRESS UPDATE
MONDAY TO FRIDAY 8:30AM TO 4:30PM “Call or visit if I can be of service to you. It’s an honour to serve our community!”
Bus
open ainesses s usua l!
County Road 43: Your Questions, Answered. Following the public meeting, we’ve answered residents’ questions about roundabouts, bridgework, pedestrian crossings, traffic lights, timelines and more! Curious? Visit northgrenville.ca/news for the full Q&A and latest project updates.
Traffic Update: Colonnade Roundabout
SERVICES OFFERED
Passports Canada Child Benefit Employment Insurance Canada Pension Plan Guaranteed Income Supplement Canadian Pension Plan Disability Veterans Affairs
• Traffic is temporarily using the south side of the roundabout, then will switch to the north side as work progresses. • No left turns are permitted from or into Colonnade Drive. • Local traffic is encouraged to use the CR 19 roundabout (by Giant Tiger) to navigate around Colonnade Drive. M E M B E R O F PA R L I A M E N T For updated information, visit the project website at:
michaelbarrettmp.ca 1-866-498-3096
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August 20, 2026
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Caring for Blanding’s
Aleta Karstad removing eggs from a road-shoulder Blanding’s Turtle nest, 13 June 2026, Forsythe Road, Limerick Forest.
by Fred Schueler & Aleta Karstad – Fragile Inheritance Natural History B l a n d i n g ' s Tu r t l e (Emydoidea blandingii) is eastern Ontario's only semi-aquatic turtle, ranging for kilometres overland, and often nesting along roads far from water. Because the range widely, they are vulnerable to road mortality and habitat disturbance. The isolated Nova Scotia population is classified as "endangered," while our Ontario and Quebec populations are "threatened."
Blanding's Turtle have high-domed shells, about 20 cm long, and a distinctively bright yellow chin and throat. The carapace, or upper shell, is speckled with numerous pale flecks or streaks on a dark background. The plastron, or lower shell, is yellow with dark blotches along the sides. On the 12th of June, we got an e-mail about a Blanding's Turtle that had nested along Forsythe Road in Limerick Forest, and a request that we "dig in the soil at the spot and collect the eggs... remem-
Hatchling Blanding’s Turtle before release by Canadian Wildlife Federation, 15 August 2026, Forsythe Road, Limerick Forest.
ber not to rotate the eggs... place them in a container that has some soil/sand from the nesting site" so they could be hatched by the Canadian Wildlife Federation's (CWF) turtle rescue programme. After a bit of searching we found the nest site, along the sparsely grassy clay and gravel roadside in a Red Pine plantation. We dug with a spoon in the compact gravelly road shoulder, finding the nest was 20 cm deep, containing 14 eggs, one of which we broke, and another that
was apparently crushed by the mother filling in the hole. We transferred the eggs to the CWF, and on the 12th of August received word that all of the dozen eggs had hatched, and were ready for release. These were among 900 hatchlings of this species rescued by the CWF this year. On 15 August, we went with David Seburn, the CWF lead on turtle rescue, and two students, and released the brightly coloured hatchlings along the roadside
shore of an open-water wetland near where the nest had been. In the 47 years we’ve lived in what is now North Grenville we’ve seen what looks like an increase in the population of this iconic species. In the 1980s we saw only 2, in the 1990s 13, in the 2000s 19, in the 2010s 11, and so far in the 2020s 16 (the lower number in the 2010s may be due to our being away during the nesting season in some years). National Museum herpetologist Francis Cook had moved to the greater Bishops Mills area in 1970, and his widow Joyce recalls three Blandings on their land beginning in 1992. We can’t imagine that we weren’t driving around much in the 1980s, and wonder if the increase in sightings may be due to a slow “population explosion” due to the re-occupancy of local streams by Beavers in the 1960s. I n 2 0 0 7 , c o m p a ring records of the nesting seasons of May and June in 1991-1999 with
2000-2007, we reported a significant decrease in the proportion of roadkills in the turtles of all species that we saw on roads, which we correlated with the erection of Turtle Crossing signs and educational publicity. This result, combined with the increased concern expressed about roadcrossing turtles by many people, led us to suspect that we had documented active avoidance of turtles by drivers. This concern for road-crossing turtles has continued, and we not-infrequently find that we are not the first vehicle to stop to help a turtle across a road. In an Ojibway creation story a Blanding’s Turtle rescued the sun from the mud and returned it to the sky, leaving a permanent sun-glow on its neck and chin. We can hope that the sun will continue to rise on this species’ fortunes, with careful drivers and adequately connected habitat.
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Raised $85,632 A heartfelt thank you to all of our sponsors, auction donors, volunteers, and players who helped make this year’s tournament a tremendous success. Your generosity and community spirit are helping make a difference in local health care.
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Proceeds will bring us one step closer to purchasing a new 3-D mammography machine, helping provide enhanced breast screening and quality care close to home.
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Senior Times The quietest kind of courage: starting something new after 60
Paul A. Jansen, BA, LLB.
Rachel S. Jansen, B.Comm., J.D.
215 Van Buren Street, Kemptville 613.258.7462 jansenlaw.com
Real Estate - Wills & Estates - Family Law - Corporate
by Nancy Morgan
Every fall, a familiar scene plays out at my studio. A woman walks in, stands near the back, and mutters something about two left feet. It happens every single season, without fail. Sharon was one of them. She joined my Learn to Tap workshop last spring having never taken a dance class in her life. "I've always wanted to," she told me, the way so many people do, like she'd been waiting for permission. Maureen came at it differently. A friend suggested she try it. She wasn't sure she'd like it. "I don't know if I'll like it," she said, "but I have a feeling I should try this!" Two different doorways into the same room. That's usually how it goes. Some people arrive because a poster caught their eye and they thought, why not. Others have carried the idea for years. Everyone arrives with the same nervous smile, and very few regret giving it a try. Once people get past that first class, someAugust 20, 2026
thing shifts. They come back. Sharon and Maureen, both over 60, are proof of that. Neither expected tap dancing, of all things, to become part of their week. Now it is. I've been teaching adults how to tap dance since 1977. If there's one thing I've learned, it's that reinvention isn't just for the young. Some of my most determined, joyful students started in their sixties and seventies. Nobody is trying to prove anything. Mostly, it's that they finally got around to doing something they've been thinking of trying for years. Kemptville has a lot of doors like mine! The Singing Seniors and The Kemptville Male Choir always welcome new voices. Tempo Drive Music Studio has guitar and singing lessons if that's more your speed. Luce End's Fine Art & Graphic Design has a watercolour class coming up, or if you'd rather learn to save a life, take a CPR course with Helping Hands First Aid Training. Walk into any one of
these for the first time and you'll likely feel the same wobble Sharon and Maureen felt on their first day, and the same relief once you realize everyone else in the room started out a little wobbly too. Whatever it is you've been putting off, chances are someone nearby is teaching it. This October, again, I'm running two beginner dance workshops for anyone ready to find out what Sharon and Maureen figured out. Again, I'll hear "I've always wanted to try this!". And again, I'll see the excitement on their faces as they try something new. Age isn't a barrier. Two left feet aren't a barrier. All you need is a willingness to walk through the door. So this fall, whichever door you choose, go ahead and open it. Learn to Tap Dance or Line Dance at www. theworkshopdancestudio.com.
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A SAFER ONTARIO MEANS
BUILDING NEW JAILS
Learn how we’re protecting the province at ontario.ca/SaferOntario Paid for by the Government of Ontario August 20 2026
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The Story of our Schools
The school at Acton’s Corners between 1858 and 1905
by David Shanahan As the end of summer approaches and schools prepare to reopen, it’s a good time to look back at how we got the school system that we have. It’s been sixty years since the one-room schools closed, but the story goes much further back than that. 1. The Decisive Decade: 1840-1850 When the two provinces known as Upper and Lower Canada were united as the Province of Canada in 1841, it was hoped that the union would bring a period of political and social stability to the new Province after decades of conflict. The previous eighty years had seen the British conquer Canada, the American Revolution, the War of 1812, and the Rebellions of 1837. Any attempt at organising educational matters in those years was bound to be restricted and, at most, a distraction from more important issues. The legislation that had been passed between 1816 and 1841 had laid down certain principles which would carry through in later decades: the responsibility of the government to encourage education of the people generally, and not just the children of the wealthy and influential; and the desirability of having local communities supervise their own schools as much as possible. As if to make up for lost time, the government passed three Common Schools Acts in just five years (1841, 1843 and 1846), as they tinkered with ideas to find the right balance between a centralised, government-suAugust 20 2026
pervised system, and one that was locally-administered and financed. The 1841 Act created a central government-supervised superintendency of education, which would be the embryonic Education Department. It also assigned responsibility for building schools and assessing taxation for paying for the buildings. Money from the government would be granted depending on the number of pupils in the district between the ages of 5 and 16. It was one thing to pass a law, but quite another thing to implement it. The complicated rules and regulations governing the Act led to tremendous confusion at the county and township level, as these local councils found it hard to access the funds available under the Act. There was also widespread antagonism to the Act by the general population, as they resented losing the three trustees that had been previously elected by themselves for their local school. This role was transferred to the district and township level, and parents did not appreciate the government taking away their power to run their own school. The 1843 Common School Act was passed to try and clarify the situation and answer these objections. Once again, each school could elect three trustees to administer the day-to-day activities, supervise the teachers, assign fees, and manage the school building. There was to be far more communication between the local school and the Superintendent of Education through regular reports and copies of regulations exchanged
between the two sides. But the precise allocation of responsibility was to have been set out in a new Municipal Act to accompany the Common Schools Act, and that didn't happen. The Municipal Act was delayed and, again, the township and county councils were confused about what their role was meant to be. The United Counties of Leeds & Grenville [UCLG] referred the Schools Act to a special committee to find out exactly what they had to do to get the money available to them from the province. The UCLG also arranged to have 180 copies of the schools act distributed throughout the townships and appointed District and Township Superintendents of Education under the Act. In 1844, Oxford Township was divided into 19 school sections by the Superintendent, Andrew Holmes. The sections were based on population, and once their boundaries were identified, schools could be built for each one. In 1844, the average cost of building a school had been £50. But by the following year, as the trustees of the sections began to plan, costs had risen. According to the District Surveyor, the cost of a stone school house measuring 30 x 24 feet was £110, while that of a frame building was £83.10.0. Tinkering with the Common School Act continued, however, as it was felt that there were still some unresolved issues that had to be addressed. In addition, the Assistant Superintendent of Education, Egerton Ryerson, had conducted a year-long inspection tour of Prussia, Ireland and the United States, where he examined different educational systems. By 1846 he was back in Canada, and had assumed the position of Superintendent of Education, one he was to hold from 1846 until 1876, and he was determined to implement some of what he had seen on his tour. The result was yet another Common Schools Act in 1846, yet another piece of legislation to which the communities had to adapt.
Health First, wellness you can feel good about
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A new young Osprey
A local resident and avid bird watcher sent this picture of one of the two birds that have been hatched by Ospreys on the nesting platform that he set up on his property. The photographer, located near Pirate Cove marina, would like to preserve his privacy. Wonderful achievement and wonderful photograph.
Next: The foundation laid 11
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CROSSWORD
ACROSS 1. Anagram of "Care" 5. Dry riverbed 9. Potato 13. Stop to a horse 14. Suffering 16. Designed for flight 17. Pesky insects 18. Mud volcano 19. A magician 20. Foul moods 22. Restores confidence in 24. Ego 26. Contemptuous look 27. Govern badly 30. Get away 33. Who you are 35. Coronet 37. Neither ___ 38. Hesitate 41. Local Area Network
42. Of a pelvic bone 45. His canvas are walls 48. Clandestine 51. Candidate 52. Goes ballistic 54. Dispatch 55. Window sashes 59. Geeks 62. Murres 63. Elbowroom 65. Castle defense 66. Large mass of floating ice 67. Moon of Saturn 68. Dogfish 69. Lack of difficulty 70. Trawling equipment 71. Bird home
DOWN 1. Barley beards 2. Lower jaw part 3. Rotating spit oven 4. Not western 5. Past tense of To be 6. Food thickener 7. Handouts 8. Crazy 9. Japanese warrior 10. Juicy fruit 11. Desire 12. Female deer (plural) 15. Affirmatives 21. Slattern 23. Religious offshoot 25. Turn upside down 27. Short skirt 28. Graven images 29. Estimated time of arrival 31. A certain type of word 32. Eliminate 34. "Tasty!" 36. Anagram of "Neat" 39. Our star 40. Anagram of "Rose" 43. Land 44. Pack to capacity 46. Ends a prayer 47. Electrician 49. Cast out 50. Type of bowling 53. Condition 55. Regular hexahedron 56. Environs 57. Knights 58. "Go away!" 60. Speaker's place 61. Immediately 64. N N N
FREE! Messy Church! A fun, family-friendly way to get together with your neighbours. Crafts, songs, stories, spaghetti dinner and so much more! Wednesday, August 26 from 4:00 - 6:00 pm at St. John's United Church No need to pre-register - just show up! Questions? contact stjohnskemptville@ gmail.com or call 613-258-3259. KEMPTVILLE YOUTH MUSICAL THEATRE Summer Camp present Annie Junior Friday Aug 21, Saturday Aug 22 and Sunday Aug 23 at the Urbandale Arts Centre in Kemptville. Bring the kids to see the show. No cost. Donations appreciated. Kemptville Youth Musical Theatre Company presents the Tony award winning musical Something Rotten Sept 26 - Oct 10 at the Urbandale Arts Centre in Kemptville. Come out and see this fantastic show with some amazing talent.
Solutions to last week’s Sudoku
Easy
Medium
Hard
Solution to last week’s Crossword
August 20, 2026
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KYC BOOK FAIR August 21-22-23, Ferguson Forest Centre, Details at www.KYC.TEAM KEMPTVILLE YOUTH CENTRE is open Monday to Friday from 2pm to 6pm daily for drop-in programming. Ages 11 to 19. Jr. Youth Night 2nd Monday of the month from 6pm to 8pm. Ages 8 to 11. No pre-registration required. All programming at KYC is FREE. Follow us on Facebook to view other scheduled events and programs. KEMPTVILLE LEGION: Fridays 3-9. Free Pool and Darts. Everyone Welcome NG DUPLICATE BRIDGE CLUB Masonic Lodge 311 Van Buren Kemptivlle, Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at 12:15. All Levels of bridge players are welcome. Info call 613-795-7155 FRIENDSHIP LUNCHES are offered to everyone every Friday. Please join us in our lower hall by 11:30 for a free meal, companionship and fellowship at St. John's United Church hall at 400 Prescott St. and begin at 11:30. There is no charge. A free will offering is appreciated. Everyone is welcome. NG COMMUNITY MEALS ASSOCIATION Every Tuesday, 4-7 PM Free or by Donation Dinner ( serving dinner until 6:30 pm) Where: Pvt. Blake Williamson Memorial Hall, (Old Fire Hall) 25 Reuben Cres.Everyone is welcome. Bring clean indoor shoes FRIENDSHIP CAFÉ is open to the community Tuesday's from 10 to noon. All are welcome to stop by, enjoy a hot beverage, a sweet treat and some friendly conversation all at no cost. At St. John's United Church hall at 400 Prescott St. TUESDAY COMMUNITY HUB hosted by the House of Lazarus All are welcome to drop in. Advocacy, “make a meal, take a meal” cooking opportunities, community services assistance are just a few of the weekly programs. Stop by and visit or contact House of Lazarus directly at 613989-3830 for more details. Upstairs at St. John's United Church at 400 Prescott St. MODERN SQUARE DANCING in Kemptville with the Grenville Gremlins Square Dance Club. Monday Evenings 7:00 - 9:30pm. North Grenville
Municipal Center County Road 44 For more info call Robert Taylor (613) 8535634, or email grenvillegremlins09@ gmail.com. NORTH GRENVILLE MEN’S SHED We meet every Tuesday and Thursday morning, 8:30 to 10:30, at 2 Oxford St. West. Contact northgrenvillemensshed@gmail.com for more information. KEMPTVILLE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY meetings are held monthly, except July, August & December. They are held the 3rd Wednesday of the month at 7:00 pm at the Kemptville Pentecostal Church. NG PRIDE: 2SLGBTQAI+ Seniors and allies meet 2 - 4pm the first and third Sunday of each month at the NG Library. Join us for coffee, chat, cards and shenanigans. Looking to stay connected, informed, and inspired in retirement? JOIN THE PROBUS CLUB OF NORTH GRENVILLE a friendly group of retirees who meet monthly for conversation, laughter, and thought-provoking presentations. Gatherings take place the third Wednesday of each month at 9:30 a.m. at St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church Hall. For details, email n.g.probus97@gmail. com CAREGIVER COFFEE is a welcoming monthly drop-in for caregivers to pause, connect, and feel supported. Join us the last Tuesday of each month from 1–3 PM at Beth Donovan Hospice. Free, casual, and open to all caregivers. JOIN NORTH GRENVILLE TOASTMASTERS! Build confidence. Improve communication. Become a better leader. We meet the 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month at 7:00 p.m., in person at 215 Sanders Street, Suite 200, or via Zoom. Guests are always welcome. Come discover your voice! EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road. Tuesday, August 4, 18, September 1, 15, 29. Registration starts at 6:00 p.m., play starts at 6:30 p.m. BID EUCHRE at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road. Tuesday, July 28, August 11, 25, September 8, 22. Registration starts at 6:00 p.m., play starts at 6:30 p.m. SPEED EUCHRE 10X10 at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road. Sunday, July 26, August 23 and September 20. Registration starts at 12:30 p.m., play starts at 1:00 p.m. 10x10 means you play 10 games with as many euchre hands as you can within 10 minutes per game, for unlimited points. Stick the dealer: if everyone passes, the dealer must call a trump suit. If you like to take your time when playing euchre, this version is not recommended. WIZARD CARD GAME at Pierce's Corners (aka the Marlborough Community Centre) at 3048 Pierce Road. Sunday, August 9 and September 13. Aged 18 and over. Registration starts at 12:30 p.m., play starts at 1:00 p.m.
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Rainy summer leads to elevated flows, water levels across the Rideau Valley watershed The Rideau Valley Conservation Authority (RVCA) is issuing a Water Safety Statement advising recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, parents and pet owners to exercise caution near waterways. Water levels and flows remain elevated across portions of the Rideau Valley Watershed following recent rainfall. Fast-moving water and unstable banks may create hazardous conditions. While flooding is not anticipated at this time, we caution residents to remain vigilant and avoid potentially dangerous areas around rivers, streams and other bodies of water. More Details: Weather Forecast: Recent rainfall has resulted in elevated water levels and flows across portions of the Rideau Valley Watershed. Additional rainfall is expected on Monday, August 10, with scattered thunderstorms possible and localized accumulations of 30–50 mm. These conditions may result in further increases in water levels and flows. Environmental Conditions: Recent rainfall has resulted in elevated water levels and flows across portions of the Rideau Valley Watershed. Water levels and flows on the Tay River and smaller waterways are unseasonably high for this time of year, with conditions more commonly observed during the spring. Some lakes are also experiencing elevated water levels that may result in nuisance impacts for shoreline property owners. Risks: Elevated water levels and faster flows may create hazardous conditions near rivers, streams, dams, spillways, and other water control structures. Shoreline impacts, including bank erosion and the displacement or damage of docks and other waterfront infrastructure, are possible. Banks may be slippery, unstable, or subject to erosion, particularly along fast-flowing waterways. Location-Specific Considerations: While widespread flooding is not currently anticipated, water levels and flows will remain elevated in some areas as runoff continues to move through the watershed. Conditions vary by location, and localized impacts to shorelines and waterfront properties may occur. Recreational users should be particularly cautious near fast-flowing water and water control structures. Action & Safety Recommendations: Residents and recreational users are advised to exercise caution when near rivers, streams, lakes, and other waterbodies due to the risks summarized above. Parents should inform their children of these dangers and provide appropriate supervision. Pet owners should also keep pets away from fast-moving water and unstable shorelines. Property owners in areas experiencing elevated water levels should take necessary precautions, such as: Avoiding areas of actively eroding or unstable shoreline; Ensuring sump pumps are clear and in good working condition where applicable; Checking docks and other waterfront structures for signs of instability or damage; Securing items that could be displaced or carried away by elevated water levels and flows. Duration: This Water Safety Statement is in effect until Monday, August 24 at 11:59 pm or until an update has been issued. RVCA monitors water levels and weather forecasts as part of its Flood Forecasting and Warning Program. Updates will be provided as conditions change.
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August 20 2026
Come, let’s reason together
I AM
by David Shanahan When Moses first encountered God in the Midianite wilderness, he was told to give a message to his people, slaves in Egypt. Moses asked, “what name should I tell them who sent me?” And God said to Moses, “I am who I am. This is what you are to say to the Israelites: ‘I am has sent me to you’... This is my name forever, the name you shall call me from generation to generation”. For the Jews, this name became so precious, so holy, they would not say it aloud. It was represented by the shortened form YHWH. In the Bible, it is printed in all caps as LORD, and is often written as Yahweh, or Jehovah. It expresses who God is, that he is, eternal, independent of time, space, or other limitations. It is God’s own expression of himself. Which is why, when Jesus used the phrase “I am” in certain situations, he was leaving no uncertainty about who he was claiming to be. His opponents certainly understood only too clearly what he was saying, and took up stones to kill him “for blasphemy, because you, a mere man, claim to be God.” [John 10.33] Two incidents in which Jesus deliberately used the “I am” have immediate relevance when considering who and what he was, and the importance of how we respond to those claims. In speaking with his own followers, he said: “Your father Abraham rejoiced at the thought of seeing my day; he saw it and was glad.” When they pointed out that he was not even fifty years old, so how could Abraham have seen him, he replied: “Very truly I tell you, before Abraham was born, I am!” His listeners, people who had followed him, took up stones to kill him for blasphemy. Opponents or followers, all understood what he was claiming, and all reacted the same way: “Blasphemy!”. Which it would have been, if it were untrue. In the same conversation, he had added to the controversy: “I told you that you would die in your sins; if you do not believe that I am he, you 13
will indeed die in your sins.” [John 8.24] Once again, you can imagine the offense this caused in the minds of his hearers. Arrogance, insanity, blasphemy: unless it were true. The second incident to look at came shortly after that one, and was one of seven statements he made about himself using the “I AM”. Speaking to his disciples at the Last Supper, he knew where he had come and where he was going, and told his friends that they knew the way. Thomas, a natural sceptic, replied: “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” In his response, Jesus laid down the most specific and exclusive claim, one that people prefer to ignore, water down, or deny completely. Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me”. [John 14.6] It is often said that there are many ways to God, but Jesus says that none of them make it through. Only he can open that way because he is the way, the only truth, and the life everlasting. “I am who I am”. Why is there only one way? Because, and Scripture repeats the same point over and over again, as Paul says “ for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God”
[Romans 3.23] That is the problem: not that we can’t be good in many ways, but that we all fall short. What can be done? Jesus statement that “if you do not believe that I am he, you will indeed die in your sins" leaves us in a precarious position. How can we find forgiveness, find the true way to life? John the Baptist, sent to prepare the way of the Lord, pointed to Jesus by the Jordan River and said: “Look, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” There is no one righteous, not even one; there is no one who understands; there is no one who seeks God. [Romans 3.10] In the Old Testament, Ecclesiastes says it also: “Indeed, there is no one on earth who is righteous, no one who does what is right and never sins”. [Eccles. 7.20] You can object, you can reject, and you can deny that this is real, relevant, or condemn it as divisive; but what if Jesus told the truth, and was the truth? Where do you go to find forgiveness? “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.” [Matthew 11.28]
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Agriculture's economic story goes far beyond the farm by Ethan Wallace, Vice President, OFA There has been a noticeable shift in recent months in how governments are talking about agriculture. As we navigate trade uncertainty, tariffs and a changing global economy, conversations about food security, domestic manufacturing, supply chain resilience and economic growth have taken on new urgency. More and more, agriculture is being recognized as an essential part of Ontario's and Canada's future. That's encouraging to see. Those of us in the agriculture sector have long made the case that agriculture is far more than simply what happens on the farm. Ontario's agriculture and agri-food sector is one of the province's largest economic drivers, supporting businesses, creating jobs and producing the food, fuel, fibre and flowers people depend on every day. I farm near Seaforth by Lake Huron and serve as vice-president of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA), where I represent farmers in Huron and Perth
counties. Even after a lifetime in agriculture, I can't claim to know every commodity, every business or every challenge across this province firsthand. Neither can the other directors around our board table. That's why OFA's annual summer board tour is so valuable. Each year, directors spend time in a different agricultural region, meeting the farmers, processors, manufacturers and rural businesses that make Ontario agriculture so diverse. It gives us a broader perspective when we return to the board table and helps ensure our discussions are informed not only by reports and presentations, but by conversations with the people living those realities every day. This year's tour took us to Perth County, where agriculture is the biggest pillar of the local economy and supports an impressive network of businesses and jobs that extends well beyond the farm. Our first stop was Millbank Hardware, a locally owned rural business that has grown into a destination for customers across
southwestern Ontario while continuing to serve the needs of farm families and rural communities. At Mapleview Agri, we saw how a homegrown company has built a reputation for producing milk replacers for calves, sheep and goats that are sold well beyond Ontario. Nuhn Industries demonstrated how Ontario manufacturing and engineering expertise have created equipment used by livestock farmers here and around the world to manage manure efficiently and responsibly. We also visited Kampkreek Dairies, where we saw the investment, innovation and commitment that define today's family farms, and Gray Ridge Eggs, where millions of Ontario eggs are graded, packaged and distributed to consumers every year. All our stops were very different businesses, and that's precisely the point. Together, they demonstrate the remarkable network of farms, manufacturers, processors, suppliers and entrepreneurs that makes agriculture such an important economic engine. It's a story that's repeated in every cor-
ner of Ontario, even though the businesses themselves may look different. Today, Ontario's agrifood sector contributes more than $51 billion annually to the provincial economy and supports approximately 867,000 jobs: about one in every 10 jobs in the province. Those jobs span farming, food processing, manufacturing, transportation, retail, hospitality, research and countless other sectors connected to getting Ontario food, fuel, fibre and flowers from the farm to consumers here at home and around the
KDH Foundation invests $262,508 in equipment to enhance patient care The Kemptville District Hospital Foundation is proud to announce a $262,508 investment in Kemptville District Hospital, supporting eight important capital needs across the hospital. The funding will provide essential equipment for the Emergency Department, Surgical Care Unit, Operating Room and Ambulatory Clinics, helping healthcare teams deliver high-quality care to patients in our community, close to home. The Foundation presented the cheque during its 16th Annual Corporate Golf Classic, held recently at eQuinelle Golf Club. While the presentation took
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place during the event, the $262,508 investment was made possible through the generosity of Foundation donors. The Golf Classic itself raised an impressive $85,632 toward the purchase of a new 3D mammography machine for KDH. “These investments are a wonderful reflection of the generosity and commitment of our community,” said Cindy Smith, Executive Director of the Kemptville District Hospital Foundation. “Every donation helps ensure our hospital has the equipment and resources needed to provide excellent care to patients close to home.”
world. Strong farms support manufacturers, processors, transportation companies, veterinarians, mechanics, feed suppliers and many other businesses. In turn, those businesses create jobs, invest in their communities and give Ontario farmers the products, services and expertise they need to compete. That interconnected strength matters at a time when governments are looking for ways to build a stronger, more resilient economy. Food security, domestic manufacturing, supply chain
resilience, innovation and economic growth are all priorities for Ontario and Canada — and agriculture contributes to every one of them. Our annual board tour helps OFA directors better understand those contributions in different parts of the province. What we learn firsthand helps shape the policy positions we develop, the conversations we have with government and the decisions we make on behalf of members across Ontario.
Look for us at our pop up stands where we will be raffling off tickets for your chance to win a lovely garden statue
The Foundation extends its sincere thanks to the donors whose generosity made this $262,508 investment possible. Their support is helping strengthen healthcare today and for the future of our community.
He a r t b e a t OF OUR COMMUNITY
August 20, 2026
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The Voice of North Grenville
Roderick (Rod) Angus MacLennan February 6, 1940 - August 22, 2018
I thank God every time I remember you. Your life was a blessing and your memory a treasure.
Your Angela
The Food Corner by Paul Cormier, Salamanders of Kemptville Some time ago, we introduced you to Mexican mole, i.e., the use of chocolate with dishes such as chicken. Today’s recipe has a bit of mole to it while being a great BBQ treat. This is where your skills as a grille-chef show up really well. You may wish to try this Spicy BBQ Grilled Chicken recipe for 6 to 8 folks. If it’s raining outside, you can grille this inside just as easily.
Spicy BBQ Grilled Chicken
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon each of chili powder, brown sugar, baking cocoa, olive oil and balsamic vinegar 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon and 3 tablespoons of olive oil 6 to 8 chicken breasts with the bone in and with their skins on ½ cup of melted butter 3 tablespoons of lime juice ¼ cup of red onion, chopped very finely 3 sundried tomato slices and one jalapeno pepper, both chopped very finely 1 teaspoon of black pepper and 3 good dashes of Worcestershire sauce Preparation: In a small bowl combine the first two groups of ingredients above into a basting sauce Brush the chicken with your baste and turn your BBQ on to medium heat Place the chicken skin down on your grille and cook in indirect heat for 15 minutes Turn the chicken over and continue to cook until the chicken is done Meanwhile, whisk together the melted butter ingredients into a drizzle Spoon the drizzle over the cooked chicken as you are serving it What works well with this recipe is 6 to 8 fresh cobs of corn, buttered and wrapped in foil, cooking with your chicken at the same time. As I’ve said in previous years, it’s important to supervise the cooking of anything on your BBQ to avoid over-cooking and charring. For chicken, I would recommend you use a meat thermometer to check on doneness. If you have a mind to, try a chilled Pinot Grigio with this recipe. All the best for the BBQ season from pcormier@ ranaprocess.com.
Step Into the Square: 10 reasons to try modern square dancing with the Grenville Gremlins by Robert Taylor-King If your impression of square dancing is tied to awkward high school gym classes or dusty record players, it is time for an update right here in North Grenville. Modern social square dancing with the Grenville Gremlins is a vibrant, highenergy, and welcoming activity that blends physical wellness, mental agility, and pure local camaraderie. Still not convinced? Here is a list of the top 10 reasons you should come dance with us: 1. A Real-Time Brain Workout: Forget memorizing long choreographies. Modern callers issue directions on the fly, turning each dance tip into a real-time team puzzle. Your brain stays sharp as you continuously process geometry, spatial awareness, and quick movement. Also, clinical studies show cognitive improvement for persons who square dance and live with Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease! 2. Low-Impact Fitness in Disguise: A single eve-
ning in the square easily accumulates 3,000 to 5,000 steps—covering roughly two to three miles without ever feeling like grueling exercise. It provides steady, low-impact aerobic activity that keeps you moving smoothly. 3. No Partner Required: You never need to bring someone with you to participate. Dancers rotate continuously throughout the night, and new sets of eight are formed with every song. It is one of the easiest ways to dive in solo and instantly belong. But if you do have a partner, bring them along. 4. Instant Social Connection: Because eight people must work together to execute each sequence, social barriers evaporate immediately. Joining the Grenville Gremlins connects you directly with friendly neighbours in the North Grenville community. 5. Modern & Diverse Soundtracks: Today’s callers keep energy high with soundtracks spanning pop hits, classic rock, Broadway showtunes, country, and
modern chart-toppers— moving far beyond traditional fiddle tunes. 6. Engaged Mindfulness & Stress Relief: Because calls require your undivided attention, there is simply no mental room left to worry about work deadlines or daily errands. It functions as active mindfulness, giving your mind a complete rest from routine stress. 7. Global Standardization: Calls are standardized internationally in English by CALLERLAB. Once you learn the core calls with the Gremlins in North Grenville, you can visit clubs in Ottawa, Toronto, or anywhere worldwide and dance seamlessly. 8. Inclusive and Welcoming Space: The Grenville Gremlins place inclusivity front and center with casual dress options, welcoming callers, and a supportive, multi-generational membership where everyone feels right at home. 9. Remarkably Affordable Night Out: Compared to commercial fitness memberships or costly nightlife
options, community square dancing offers incredible value with modest door fees and accessible local sessions. 10. Laughter Built Into the Game: When someone turns left instead of right, the square breaks down into lighthearted laughter rather than frustration. Recovering, regrouping, and trying again together is half the pleasure of the evening. READY TO JOIN THE SQUARE? Whether you are a complete beginner, or looking to get back out on the dance floor, the Grenville Gremlins welcome you! All you need is a comfortable pair of shoes and a willingness to laugh along the way. We are an affirming and welcoming environment. Our open house is from 7-9pm, free of charge, on September 14 and 21 at the North Grenville Municipal Centre. Contact: Robert Taylor, President • Phone or text: 613-853-5634, or email at grenvillegremlins09@ gmail.com
Ron's
Small Engine Repair 613.258.9720
ronssmallengines@outlook.com 1 Jayland Drive, Kemptville (across from old Bingo Hall)
August 20 2026
15
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The Voice of North Grenville
Common Sense Health
Baldwin's Birds
Taken for Granted
Stay grounded with a blueberry bush
Male Goldfinch Foreign visitors have taken up my bird time for the past couple of weeks now, so I am having to scratch the old brain a little this morning to get together something of interest to you all. I try and file all my pictures taken during the week, so that I keep fairly current with you as you read and compare what you are seeing, compared with what I am seeing. I could just say that we are still getting the same old group of birds that we usually do, but what does that really mean? It means that we are starting to take our “Every-day Birds” for granted, which isn’t the way things should be. They all have their own description and character and shouldn’t be lumped in and stereotyped as the “Common bunch!” One of our most colourful birds, the male Goldfinches, are with us all year round and deserve to be recognized at all times for the beautiful pictures they unknowingly create every day, as they partake of food from the hanging feeders, or perch in the greenery of the nearby pine trees.
Their contrasting yellow and black colours are brought out further by the luxuriant green of the trees, as they pose, or just wait, for their own opportunity to come in to feed. Their female counterparts are wearing brighter colours than usual at this time of the year, but are no match for the dapper males of their species, who really catch the eye! Another captivating, regular bird types to visit all the year are the Blackcapped Chickadees, who are always on the go and never sit still for very long. I actually caught, with my camera, one of them doing what appeared to be a fan dance, as they swayed back and forth on one of the feeder cables. It, quite literally, threw up its wings, fully opened, whilst doing the same with its tail! It put on a lovely show for what seemed like three or four minutes and reminded me of some exotic fan dancer performing on stage, somewhere in the world, but don’t ask me where! Maybe you know!? Stay safe and well, Cheers, John Baldwin
Chickadee doing a fan dance on a cable
Chipping Sparrow August 20, 2026
is easily damaged. Now breeders are trying to produce berries firm enough to be harvested by machines, while remaining attractive and delicious to the consumer. Scientists are now using DNA markers to identify desirable traits. The best blueberries that Elizabeth White's workers selected by walking through the woods are now being selected with genetic information. Blueberries provide fibre, vitamin C, vitamin K and manganese, along with anthocyanins – the plant compounds responsible for their deep blue-purple colour. These nutrients are what make the blueberry stand out as a good choice to support cardiovascular and metabolic health. If you have a sunny patch of garden, it’s possible to grow your own bush. And breeders are making it easier to select the variety that suits your local conditions. Blueberries need acidic soil, along with good drainage and plenty of sunlight. An inexpensive soil-pH test from a garden centre can tell you whether your soil is suitable. If it isn't, a raised bed with properly prepared soil may be the easier route. With the right conditions, a blueberry bush can produce for decades. Not everyone has a garden, of course. Frozen
by Diana Gifford-Jones When the weight of the world feels too heavy, I find solace in going back to the basics. I look for something wholesome and dwell on it, or better, nurture it. In this instance, it was a roadside stand and a basket of blueberries that caught my attention. How wonderful to uncover the stories and possibilities of this little fruit, each one borne of an ovary of a single flower. Wholesome indeed. Most people still know, one hopes, that blueberries were only wild food not so long ago. Indigenous peoples across North America gathered and preserved them. One traditional name, “star berry,” refers to the tiny five-pointed star at the blossom end of the fruit. Just over a century ago, a New Jersey woman set blueberries on the course of a commodity food. Elizabeth Coleman White was the daughter of a cranberry farmer at Whitesbog in New Jersey's Pine Barrens. In 1910, she read a paper by Frederick Coville, a botanist investigating blueberry cultivation. Coville had discovered that blueberries required acidic soil, explaining why they flourished naturally in the Pine Barrens. White hired local woodsmen to search the surrounding countryside for bushes producing high volumes of large and sweet berries. The finders were paid for promising plants, and some varieties eventually carried the names of the people who discovered them. The Rubel variety was named for Rube Leek, who found the original wild bush. By 1916, a collaboration between White and Coville resulted in the first commercial crop of cultivated highbush blueberries. Today, there are sophisticated blueberrybreeding programs around the world. Researchers are developing varieties that can tolerate heat, resist disease, survive shipping and, perhaps most importantly, withstand mechanical harvesting. Blueberries have traditionally required handpicking because ripe fruit
blueberries are an excellent alternative, with most of the nutritional value staying intact. And there’s an additional benefit of having blueberries at hand. It’s a simple test for how well you are looking after your teeth. Eat some blueberries, then brush and floss your teeth. After swishing water in your mouth, if you spit out little bits of blueberry, it means there’s more work needed to clean between your teeth and around gums after meals. If you take the blueberry test regularly, you’ll keep your own teeth for a lifetime. Plus, you’ll get the benefit of general good health that comes when oral health is maintained. This is the time of year for pre-ordering plants from nurseries for pick-up or shipping next Spring. I have put in my order. This column offers opinions on health and wellness, not personal medical advice. Visit www.docgiff.com to learn more. For comments, diana@docgiff.com.
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